Seeking Japan.

The hot, new field of national branding in the 2006 NPR piece intrigued me. The idea of countries "having reputations" that have a tremendous impact on their destinies is really something to think about. That comparison of "Made in Mexico" versus "Made in Japan," interested me. Japan has the higher value. I'd like to apply it to the branding of a middler schooler.

I think despite the recently devastating earthquake and tsunami, Japan's reputation will remain high, perhaps even higher now than ever before?

So, let's try to seek cool, to seek Japan, through ideas as fashion.

I am Stacy Walden. New post: "branding minister" for our middle school boys and girls, seeking the "consideration of possibilities, of a world that could be." Something like the qualities that Japan holds.

With a few, quick fashion fixes, a student would most likely end up being someone kind of well-regarded, who others might not mess with, which makes "everything easier" for that student. "Seeking out Japan" in the milieu of middle school. We've come up with 5 elements necessary for the "cool" mix. (My 12-year old daughter was consulted!)

1. hat (any type, knit like the "Brad Pitt" beanie - Sting wears one too, cheap hat, or baseball, rim, even fashion hat, but please take it off in the classroom).
price range: Target $7.00 on up.

2. good pair of jeans (like WTNW says- dark wash)
Price for a decent brand: $40. on up.

3. footwear- Converse, red Vans, or Sambas and you're good to go.
price: $40.

4. girls- pierce your ears.
price: $20.

5. backpack- totes are hip, the backpack is a REAL statement, satchel, army bag, think it over before purchasing.
price: $15 and up.

Don't be a critic of ornament. Check it out. Strut your stuff. Be novel, but not too different. Fix the branding problem with a good hat, jeans, pack, and colorful footwear. Welcome to middle school!